Rapid response research review – call for expressions of interest

UKAJI is seeking to commission a ‘rapid response’ review of the research on the absence of a fixed time limit to immigration detention in the UK.

The UK has no fixed time limit for detention of migrants and asylum seekers in removal centres. The issue of time limits for ‘administrative detention’ has received attention recently in the media and among campaigners. It was mentioned earlier this month by the Chief Inspector of Prisons Nick Hardwick, reporting on an unannounced inspection of Yarl’s Wood Immigration Removal Centre. A report in July of the UN Human Rights Committee also raised concerns, and in March an All-Party Parliamentary Group inquiry report on this issue was published. A debate is scheduled in the UK Parliament for 10 September.

As part of our “What do we know?’ series of reviews and seminars, UKAJI would like to publish a review of the research on this important topic. The review should include a brief description of the issues, an overview of the existing research evidence, and commentary identifying the further needs for research, including gaps in the existing research and the challenges likely to be faced by researchers. The review should also include a bibliography of sources.

Fee and timescale: UKAJI has allocated a lump sum of £300 for this ‘rapid response’ review. The final review must be submitted by 4 September 2015 in a form that could be published.

To apply: We invite experienced researchers to submit an expression of interest including a brief summary of your expertise in this area. The deadline for submitting an expression of interest is 5pm on 26 August 2015. Submissions should be sent to Maurice Sunkin at sunkm@essex.ac.uk. We will confirm the appointment by 5pm on 27 August 2015.